VPF - The Original Farmers Market

Original Farmers Market, 1955

I will be spending much of my time this weekend at the Original Farmers Market. In addition to Valentine's Day, this weekend is the 26th annual Mardi Gras celebration at the Market. There are many activities planned for the weekend. Larry and I have been attending this event, first separately and then together, for the entire 25 years!

The Gumbo Pot Restaurant @The Original Farmers Market

Charles Myers, the previous chef and owner of The Gumbo Pot Restaurant at the Market started the Mardi Gras celebration.  Charles now owns and operates Big Sky Restaurant in San Luis Obispo. The Mardi Gras was a small affair 26 years ago.  Charles hired our friend and musician, Stephen Allen to form a New Orleans style band and play during the lunch hour for the weekend just before Fat Tuesday.  In later years, this expanded to playing through the evening on Saturday and Sunday and then again during the dinner hour on Fat Tuesday.  Zydeco Bands were added to the bill.  Roving musicians were added.  The Mutti Gras Dog parade was added.  NOW, this is the grandest of celebrations throughout the entire Farmers Market.  many of the food stalls get into the spirit too, offering New Orleans style meals and baked goods.

The Farmers Market has an interesting history.  You can read a bit about it here. 

1960

Bon Ton Roulet, Y'all.  Hope to see some of you this weekend at the grand celebration!